TRIBUTE TO LATE MRS. HELEN IGHOWHO IWO
FROM THE GLOBAL ASSOCIATION OF ST. ITA’S OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION
With profound sorrow, yet with gratitude to Almighty God for a life richly blessed and nobly lived, the Global Association of St. Ita’s Old Girls Association joins family, friends, and loved ones in paying tribute to our dear sister and esteemed member, Late Mrs.
Helen Ighowho /wo.
The passing of Helen has left us with deep sadness, but also with cherished memories of a woman whose life reflected the values of excellence, humility, faith, and service; values that define every true daughter of St. Ita’s. She was not merely an alumna of our beloved school; she was a shining ambassador of the principles instilled within the walls of St. It’s Girls Gram mar School.
Born on the 2nd of December, 1952, in Okorogba, Delta State, Helen’s life journey was one of resilience, courage, and purpose ful determination. As the first child in a large family, she embraced responsibility early in life and grew into a dependable pillar of strength for many. Her story remains an inspiring example of leadership through sacrifice and love.
Her educational journey led her to St. Ita’s Girls Grammar School in 1966, where she distinguished herself as a diligent and disciplined student. She successfully completed her studies in 1970, carrying with her the virtues of academic excellence, discipline, integrity, and compassion that St. Ita’s is known for. These qualities remained evident throughout her life and endeared her to all who encountered her.
Helen’s pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement later took her abroad to the United Kingdom, where she furthered her studies and broadened her horizons.
Her professional career with Nigeria External Telecommunications, later NITEL, and later her work as a social worker in the United Kingdom, reflected her hardworking spirit and compassionate heart. She dedicated herself to uplifting others, especially the vulnerable, and served society with dignity and commitment.
As an old girl of St. Ita’s, Helen remained connected to her roots and deeply committed to alumnae fellowship. She was an active and loyal member of our association, always supportive of programmes that promoted unity, friendship, and the advancement of our shared heritage. She carried the banner of St. Ita’s with pride and grace wherever life took her.
Helen was known for her calm and gentle disposition, humility, sincerity, and peaceful nature, She did not seek applause or recognition, yet her kindness and selflessness spoke louder than words. She touched lives quietly but deeply, leaving lasting impressions in hearts and communities across continents.
A woman of unwavering Catholic faith, Helen remained devoted to God throughout her earthly journey. She was steadfast in prayer, committed to the Church, and deeply devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her rosary was a symbol of the faith that sustained her through life’s seasons. Her spirituality was not only professed in words, but demonstrated daily through acts of kindness, patience, and love.
To her beloved children, grandchildren, siblings, and the entire family, we extend our heartfelt condolences. We pray that God grants you comfort and strength in this season of grief. Though her earthly presence is gone, the values she lived by and the love she gave will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.
As she is laid to rest in her homeland of Okorogba, in accordance with her final wishes, we celebrate a life well lived, a life of purpose, quiet strength, dignity, and enduring grace.
Farewell, dear Helen.
Farewell, worthy daughter of St. Ita’s.
Farewell, beloved sister and friend.
Your light will continue to shine in our global sisterhood.
Your memory will forever remain blessed.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

TRIBUTE TO LATE MRS. HELEN IWO

FROM ST ITAS OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION, ABUJA BRANCH

It is with deep sorrow, yet with gratitude to Almighty God for a life well lived, that we, the members of St. Ita’s Old Girls Association, Abuja Branch, pay this heartfelt tribute to our dearly beloved sister, Late Mrs. Helen Iwo, a committed and dedicated member of our noble association.

The news of her passing came to us as a painful shock, leaving our hearts heavy with grief.

Her departure has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill, because she was not just a member of the association, but a dependable sister, a friend, and a woman of grace whose presence added value to our branch.

Mrs. Helen Iwo was known for her unwavering commitment to the affairs of the association. She was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer useful suggestions, and participate actively in our programmes and activities.

She believed strongly in the spirit of unity, sisterhood, and service which our association stands for.

Her dedication and loyalty were evident in the way she carried herself and in the love she showed to fellow members.

She was warm-hearted, humble, respectful, and peaceful in her dealings with others. Her calm nature, cheerful smile, and kind words made her easy to love and admire.

Whenever she was present, she brought joy, useful advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. She related with everyone with sincerity and genuine care, making lasting impressions on those who knew her.

As an association, we remember her as a woman who upheld the values of friendship, cooperation, and mutual support. She stood with us in moments of celebration and in challenging times, always ready to contribute her quota.

Her life reminds us of the importance of dedication, love, and selfless service to others.

Though we mourn her painful exit, we are also grateful for the memories she left behind. We thank God for the privilege of having her among us and for the impact she made during her time with the Abuja branch.

Her legacy of commitment and kindness will continue to inspire us for years to come.

To her family, we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers. May God comfort you, strengthen you, and grant you peace in this difficult time.

Please know that you are not alone, as we share in your grief and stand with you in prayer.

As our beloved sister is laid to rest, we pray that Almighty God forgives her shortcomings, accepts her soul, and grants her eternal rest in His heavenly kingdom.

Farewell, dear Mrs. Helen Iwo.

You fought the good fight, you finished your race, and you kept the faith.

Your memory will remain evergreen in our hearts.

Sleep on, dear sister.

Sleep on, faithful member.

Sleep on, beloved Mummy

May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Today, I honour my senior sister a woman of quiet strength and deep integrity.

She may not speak much, but her life speaks volumes. She is dedicated, faithful, and committed to doing what is right at all times, even when no one is watching. Guided by the fear of God, she lives with strong values and unwavering principles.

Her honesty stands out in everything she does. She is sincere and trustworthy, and because of her pure heart, she believes in the honesty of others too.

She is a rare and beautiful soul, humble, consistent, and inspiring without even trying. I celebrate you today. You are truly a blessing.

Mummie…

Your Discipline, Resilience, and Thoroughness will keep growing.

Onasah, Your Love, Calm, and Charm Eternal

Thanks for being a Mother to all.

Adiue Ma’am …

Mumee you were beautiful in every sense, gentle, calm and soft spoken, yet quietly strong. You were loved and respected by everyone who knew you. I have always admired and adored you, I cherished the times I spent with you, your prayers and messages you’ll send to me. I can still see the last message I sent to you on the 14th of November that I was on my way to see you but it was unread by you. You consoled me and my family in our time of grief. Your words of encouragement and support I still remember all. It’s hard to imagine I won’t ever be able to just dial your number and talk to you but God knows best. I was hopeful you would stay longer than the time you left us, but I find comfort in knowing you’re no more in pain or in discomfort only perfect peace. I pray your gentle soul rest in the bosom of our Lord.

Mumee you’re always loved, and forever remembered.

Goodbye Auntie Helen,
Writing this tribute have been extremely difficult because I never new the dreaded C came back. This is because even in the most difficult moments, you always put other people’s feelings first and the impact knowing about your illness will have on them. Your friendship was special to me. Since meeting you at a conference over a decade ago, you’ve been like a Big Sister to me. I still cry whenever I think of your gentle encouraging voice. You were my greatest cheerleader in any new steps or adventures I tried. Being your friend was to be invited into a world of perspective that I couldn’t have found anywhere else. Auntie Helen, you embodied the kind of resilience and kindness that we often think is a thing of the past. You taught me that true friendship isn’t measured by how long you’ve known someone but by how much of your heart you share. I am a better person for having walked just over a decade of your beautiful journey with you. My biggest regret is that I didn’t make time to visit you more often.
Rest well my dear Friend and Big Sister!!
Mabel Oseghale-Jimawo

A Tribute to My Late Aunty, Mrs. Helen Iwo (Nee Okparavero)

With deep sorrow and heartfelt gratitude, I remember my dear Aunty, Mrs. Helen Iwo. She was a woman of kindness, strength, and grace, whose presence brought warmth and comfort to everyone around her. Her gentle spirit, wise counsel, and loving heart will never be forgotten.

Aunty Helen lived a life that reflected compassion and selflessness. She touched many lives through her care, generosity, and unwavering support. Though she is no longer with us, her beautiful memories remain a guiding light in our hearts.

May her soul rest in perfect peace. She will always be dearly missed and forever cherished.

A tribute to my beloved big sister/cousin. Big sis, as I will always call you and in response, you will ‘Bena, how are you and our son’? That is my son- ESE whom you loved dearly. Always concern of his development- health, education and welfare, not to talk about me. I will forever be grateful to the Almighty God for making our path cross. Our days in Lagos was memorable. From late brother Duadu Joseph Overo’ place in Ayo Idowu close in Surulere, to Festa , Ojo- Okoko, then to Okonta in your own house, we were always visiting each other. You were hard working, wanting to give your children and those around the best. Sis, I appreciate all your sacrifices to me.I will continually keep in touch with your children. I will forever cherish you advice in my crisis situation, and apply same. You have gone to a better place- no more pains. Sleep on big sis until the Resurrection morning.

Its hard to put into words what you meant to me but me no matter what I will always make you proud

one thing ill always think about is your food no one could cook like you honestly every time me and my brother came to visit that was one of the best parts it wasnt just the food it was how you made everything feel warm and calm like home

ill never forget how you used to take us to church when we stayed with you looking back those moments mean a lot more than i realised at the time it showed your faith and the kind of person you were always trying to guide us the right way

and all the times you took me and my brother out to kingston richmond roehampton and just around those days meant everything just being with you laughing and spending time together those are memories im always gonna hold onto

thank you for everything you did for me and my brother for the love the care and just being you im really grateful for all the time we had with you

I love you nana always.

Tribute from the Otarhe Family to Our Dear Big Mummy
Our dearest Big Mummy,

Words cannot fully capture the pain and emptiness we feel since your passing. You were more than a mother to us — you were our peacekeeper, our encourager, and a light that always shone with compassion and love. Your presence brought warmth and comfort to our hearts, and your life was a powerful example of kindness, humility, and unwavering faith in God.

You lived for peace. You always wanted everyone to be happy, together, and united in love. You cooked with joy, never tired of feeding everyone — not just with food, but with laughter and care. Your kitchen was a place of love, and your camera a tool of memory; you captured every smile because you understood what family truly means. You hated quarrels or strife and would always say, “I no get power for wahala or trouble ooo, make everyone dey do together ooo, there is nothing in this life ooo.” Those words still echo in our minds — a gentle reminder that peace is greater than pride, and love is stronger than conflict.

Every Sunday, you never failed to call. We can still hear your voice: “Happiness, una don come from church? Me and una mama just dey come back. Stay close to God ooo, na only Him we get.” You were a woman of faith, a mother to all, and a pillar of love and spiritual strength.

You lived a life of gratitude — selfless, content, and full of joy — and your love touched everyone you met. You left a mark that can never be erased.

From Otarhe — The news of your passing was a blow that pierced the heart. It came as a terrible shock, one he will never fully recover from. You were not just “Big Mummy” to him — you were his comforter, his helper, and his second mother. Having lived with you and experienced your daily kindness, your sudden departure has left him deeply broken. He still finds it hard to believe you are gone; sometimes he sits in silence, wishing for one more day, one more morning where your voice would call him again. If only there could be a second chance for you to return, to share your laughter and gentle presence once more. Big Mummy, your absence has created a void no one can fill, and your memory has become his constant companion.

From Rachael: She still calls your phone every day, waiting for you to answer. She says you promised to come back and take pictures with her, and she’s keeping the clothes you bought her ready for when you do.

From Gabriel: He shouted, “Impossible! Who killed Big Mummy? What happened?” He still refuses to believe you could be gone. “Maybe she’ll call us later,” he says, holding onto that hope with his young, innocent heart.

From Ofovie: He cried and cried, saying, “Big Mummy is too nice to die. She promised to come back.” He still keeps the shoes you gave him close, unable to accept that you won’t be visiting again.

From Somto: You always spoke to her with love — “Somto, you deh try well well ooo. God go protect una. Always carry the children go church.” Those words are now her comfort in the silence you left behind. She prays every night, still hoping this pain is only a dream.

From all of us — the Otarhe Family — thank you, Big Mummy, for your faith, your warmth, your endless generosity, and your love that knew no limits. You held this family together with your grace and your prayers.

Sleep well, dearest Big Mummy. Rest peacefully in the arms of the Almighty. Though our hearts ache beyond words, we find solace knowing that your soul is at rest. Your light will never fade — it will shine forever in our hearts.
Go well Big mummy till we meet to part no more.
THE OTARHE FAMILY

Tribute to Mrs. Helen Iwo.

A heartfelt tribute to my cousin. Mrs. Helen Iwo, a remarkable woman who touched many lives. We were very close to each other when we were growing up. Even when I relocated to the North of Nigeria we were always in touch with each other. Each time I came to Lagos from Kano I always made sure I visited her in Festac town. Even when she relocated to the United Kingdom we were always in touch and she always contributed immensely to matters affecting the Okpohro family. Your strength, kindness, and resilience have left a lasting impact on those who knew you. May your legacy live on and may your memory be a blessing to all who remember you. 😔💕” May your soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in the bosom of the Lord. Amen

Mama Iwo,
the love you first poured into my sister Helen, you so generously transferred to me. You didn’t hold back, you simply expanded your heart and made room for me too.

When I came to Nigeria in 2021, carrying so much on the inside, you opened your home to me without hesitation. You let me stay at your house, just so I could attend Dunamis maturity class. That kind of love is rare, quiet, practical, motherly.

And Mama, I can still hear your voice so clearly:
“Juliet, na church you dey go so, from 7am till evening. Na this my small prayer I dey pray sooo, I no get energy for this una own.”
You’d say it with that familiar mix of concern, humor, and love. Your care was always palpable, you loved loudly, effortlessly.

Every single week, without fail, you would send me a WhatsApp message just to ask how I was doing, comment on my WhatsApp posts, checking on me, mothering me from wherever you were. The only times you didn’t were when your health wasn’t good, and even then, I knew your heart was still with me.

The last time I visited London, I dragged my sister along to come and see you. When you saw me pregnant, you were the happiest person on earth. You danced with pure joy, like a real grandma already claiming her role. That moment is forever etched in my heart.

Just a week before you passed, you spent over 45 minutes on the phone with your granddaughter. You named her Agbo—praise. You kept saying, “My baby, I will carry you ooo.” I truly believed God for your healing. You would say to me when I asked how you were doing “My pikin, na una prayers de hold me.”

It still feels unreal that you’re no longer here. The shock lingers. You were the only mother we had in London, and your absence has left a quiet, painful space no one else can fill.

Mama Iwo, thank you for loving us the way you did, for opening your heart, your home, and your life to us. You will always be remembered, always be loved, and always be missed 🤍

Your Doctor daughter,
Juliet Okeke

TRIBUTE:

Mama Iwo, we met at work, but God had a bigger plan for us. What began as colleagues became something sacred—you became my mother, and I your daughter. Thank you for loving me the way you did.

Your sudden decline in health shook me deeply. I had seen you just a week before and spoken with you only days earlier, never imagining that those moments would be our last. My heart is broken, and I am still learning how to carry a world without you in it.

I was with you, Mama, holding your hand as you took your final breath. Though I would give anything to have you back, I hold close the quiet comfort that we prayed the Divine Mercy Prayer together on November 14th, 2025, just before you went home.

It was an honor to sit with you and your family, to make sure you were not alone, and to love you all the way to the end.

We love you, Mama Iwo, but Jesus loves you more. Rest gently, Mama, until we meet again in glory. Amen 🙏🏽

From Helen Mbadugha
Your adopted daughter

Helen, it is so absurd that I actually writing a tribute on you. However the tragic incidence of your demise does not leave me any choice
You were a friend that stuck closer than a brother.I remembered when I transferred from Mary Mount College Agbor to St.Itas Girls Grammar School Sapele. you immediately sought me out as a childhood Friend.Your warmth and kindness made the transition from my previous school to the new one seamless.
Our bond of friendship grew stronger over the years.Your home in the UK was my abode when I visited. I recall when I spent five weeks in your home it was all warmth, kindness and fun.You took me to places of interest including Buckingham Palace and London Bridge.
Helen you were very hospitable and caring always remembering to call your loved ones on their birthdays You had a heart of gold that accommodated the interest of everyone came your way.
You may be gone but you have left an indelible mark in the sand ot time.
Adieu! Helen as you rest at the bossom of the Most High God

Tribute to a dear friend and sister from another mother.
We first met as class mates in form one in 1966 at St Itas girls grammar school, Sapele, Delta state. We were later joined by Prof. Biddy Ogonor who relocated from another school. All three of us remained very close friends until Mrs Helen Iwo’s demise late last year,2025.
A classmate once asked me how three persons can be friends and not quarrel? The only type of quarrel,I recall we had,was when we would wake ourselves up very early before classes to read in the classroom and if any one of us placed her head on the desk and slept off, the remaining two would confront the one sleeping and insist that she wakes up to read, would you call that a quarrel?
All three of us were from three different School houses of St Ann, St. Catherine and St. Martha yet we remained close to the extent that all our parents and siblings knew all three of us as friends.
I am still in shock at your passing on because you were supposed to be recovering well but God knows best.
You were such a sweet,kind, caring, generous, supportive,warm, cheerful and hardworking personality.It was always, never a dull moment with you. You had a unique way of lighting up any dull situation and making people around you laugh.
I recall your visit to my husband and I in Benue State, after our wedding when you came from the UK and brought me a beautiful Hollandaise (Single) wrapper as my wedding gift which I now hold very dear, more than ever before, among other priceless gifts from you.
I feel somewhat comforted by our last physical meeting in 2022 during St Itas old girls reunion,I am grateful to God for the time we spent together.
I will miss your calling me Ese on the phone or during our physical interactions.I will also no doubt miss your charming smile, laughter ,fun and words of wisdom.God knows best my dearest Helen,rest on in the bossom of the Lord.

.

Sister Helen’s Journey on Earth
Who is she? She is Helen, the first child of Mr. John and Mrs. Catherine, also known as
JohnCath. She was born on 2nd December 1972, during the Harmattan season, when the
weather is usually very cold. Helen brought warmth to the family, and John and Catherine were
very happy. Baby Helen was truly a blessed child.
God took time to mold her and sent her to this planet Earth almost a perfect person. Physically,
she was very beautiful, and emotionally she was calm, accommodating, kind, and loving. During
her lifetime, Helen was respected for her generosity and unwavering commitment to humanity.
Her life remains a shining example worthy of emulation. These attributes earned her another
name—Helen the Attractor—because she attracted people like a magnet.
Helen, your parents loved you, and you respected them deeply. There was never a day you
spoke ill of them or talked harshly to them during their lifetime, as some modern children do.
You were always humble and submissive. John and Catherine loved you to the point of almost
spoiling you. They cared for you and handled you like a golden egg and were even reluctant to
send you to boarding school.
However, they wanted the best for you so that you could stand tall among your peers, so they
eventually sent you to boarding school. And when you were sent to school, did you disappoint
them? Did you not work hard and stand tall among your mates? Did you not live up to their
expectations?
Did you not begin caring for us, your younger ones, even during your teenage years? Were you
not making beautiful dresses for Bridget, Josephine, Rita, and Emily, and sending them from
Lagos to us through Oghara Mama Garri? And when we wore them, did people not admire us?
Do you think I have forgotten those moments?
Sister Helen, why did you choose to leave us so early, like orphans? To some people, 70 years
may be considered a good age to depart from this planet Earth, but to me, the years you spent
on earth feel like only twenty. I wish you had lived another seventy years; I would have been so
joyful. Anyway, I have accepted it, for God knows best. Who is Bridget to challenge God’s
decisions?
I remember vividly how you used to send money to assist Papa when Mama was sick, even
though you were only a school certificate holder at that time. How old were you then? Would
children nowadays not spend their money buying beautiful clothes and shoes just to beautify
themselves?
Even on your sickbed, you were still sending money to extended family members who were in
need. You even planned to send them money last December before ill health overtook you, and
you passed on 15th November 2025.
Sister Helen, we missed you so much when you travelled out of the country. But when you
returned, you took on even greater responsibilities without complaint. You took responsibility for
us—your siblings, our children, and even our grandchildren.
All of us love you dearly and are proud of you. Members of the extended family love you. Your
friends and even my friends love you. Your children and all the grandchildren love you deeply.
We are wailing. We are sad. We are mourning. We are in pain. We are looking for you. We want
you to come back. But is that possible?
How I wish the story could change—that on a certain day you would return from a distant
journey, and Bridget would recount to you everything that happened during your absence. I
know we would be joyful, and we would laugh until our ribs hurt.
But can this happen? Can the story be changed? Is Bridget dreaming? It seems so.
Let this song lead you to meet our Lord until we meet again, never to part anymore.
Adieu, my lovely sister.
God Be With You Till We Meet Again
God be with you till we meet again,
By His counsel guide and uphold you,
With His sheep securely fold you.
God be with you till we meet again.
Till we meet, till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus’ feet.
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.

Our dearest aunty Helen, was my late mum’s (Mrs Oghenewvede Mujakperuo nee Ekama) good friend. Aunty Helen was godmother to my sister. She loved and cared for us when my mum was alive and even more so when my mum passed. I remember her taking me to boarding school in Akure, travelling with me from Lagos. Even when my mum and dad faced challenges in their marriage, we kids temporarily stayed with Helen and her kids in their house in Festac. Aunty Helen was kind, caring and loving. She was and will remain an inspiration to me in so many ways. May she rest in eternal peace now and always. Erusi Stevenson (nee Mujakperuo) for Ono and Vwede Mujakperuo’s children.

TRIBUTE TO MY LOVELY AUNTY.
Words are inadequate to express my thanks to God Almighty for a fulfilled Christian life of my aunty.
I’m truly pained when I received the news of her death two days after I arrived Nigeria from the United Kingdom. Opportunity for me visit her but distance couldn’t allow me do so but we were talking everyday on WhatsApp and she was like ” Duke when are you coming to London to visit me ” and that it’s more than forty years I saw you and I really need to see you again. She never told me she was ill if not I would have created time to visit her. God knows why
She was a great aunt, mother, sister and friend and no doubt we will all missed her love.
I am certain of the hope of resurrection and confidently say that we shall see her again on the day of resurrection by God’s grace and power. John 5:28-29.1st Thessalonians 4:13-14/18 and Daniel 12:2

Though you are no longer with us in person, your presence lives on through the values you instilled in our family. Your legacy of kindness, love, and faith will forever guide us. You truly fought the good fight and left an indelible mark on our hearts.

To my mother’s elder sister—our “Little Mum”—you were never just an aunt, but a pillar of love, warmth, and guidance in our lives. You were always there with open arms and sound advice, often stepping in as a second mother to me and my siblings. Your home was a sanctuary, and your heart was always big enough to hold all of us.

Rest peacefully, my darling aunt. You will be deeply missed and forever loved. 🤍

TRIBUTE TO MY AUNTY HELEN.
WRITING THIS TRIBUTE HAS BEEN A VERY DIFFICULT TASK FOR ME, CONSIDERING THE FACTS THAT I WAS NOT EXPECTING TO WRITE A TRIBUTE TO MY AUNTY HELEN SO SOON. OUR AUNTY HELEN SAID GOIDBYE TOO EARLY AS HER COTTON CLOSED.
AS I SIT HERE, MY HEART WEIGHS HEAVY WITH THE KNOWLEDGE THAT A BEAUTIFUL SOUL HAS GONE TO BE WITH HER CREATOR. ” ASA NÈ ÒGHÈNÈ OTA RÈ-È ” – WE CAN’T QUESTION GOD.
YOUR EXIT IS SO PAINFUL. THE LIVES YOU HAVE TOUCHED WITH YOUR GOID DEEDS ARE ENORMOUS.
YOU WERE COMPASSIONATE AND CARING TO A FAULT.
YOUR LOVE FOR FAMILY KNEW NO BOUNDS AND YOU POURED IT OUT WITH GENEROSITY THAT KNEW NO LIMITS.
MY AUNTY HELEN PLAYED SO MANY UNFORGETABLE ROLES IN MY LIFE ..THE VERY FIRST HOUSE I SLEPT IN LAGOS WAS HER HOUSE AND WHEN I GAINED ADMISION TI STUDY IN THE HIGHER INSTITUTION, IT WAS FROM HER HOUSE I LEFT FOR SCHOOL FOR THE FIRST TIME. THE BOX I USED TO CARRY MY THINGS TO SCHOOL WAS GIVEN TO ME BY HER.
IT REALLY GRIEVED MY HEART THAT SHE IS NO MORE WITH US.
AS WE BID HER FAREWELL TO THE GREAT BEYOND, I HOLD ON TO THE SWEET MEMORIES WE SHARED, KNOWING THAT THEY WILL BE A SOURCE OF COMFORT AND STRENGTH IN THE DAYS AHEAD. YOUR LEGACY OF LOVE AND RESILIENCE WILL FOREVER LIVE ON.
TRULY THOSE WHO TOUCH LIVES POSITIVELY LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.
“AKPÒ KÈDÈFAOOO ONIEMÒ RESIRI ” MAY LIGHT PERPETUAL CONTINUE TO SHINE UPON YOUR SOUL IN PARADISE, ISÈÈÈÈ.

A Tribute to a Loving Sister –
An Angel that Died

With heavy hearts , i remember a truly Special Sister , a Sister whose life was a beautiful reflection of Kindness, Care and Self Sacrifice.
She was a Gentle Soul whose Love touched Everyone

Her Caring Nature brought Comfort to many
Sister as we usaully call her, was a

source of peace and a constant presence of support
Though she is no longer with us, her memory lives on every Act of kindness and every heart that she touched

The legacy of her kindness will live forever

If there is anything like next life i will still want to have you as my Sister

Rest in peace till we meet again

Akpojedefa !

Here’s a revised version:

A Tribute To My Beloved Sister❤️, Mrs. Helen Iwo

Gone too soon, but never forgotten. Your kindness, love, generosity, and selflessness inspired us all. You gave from the heart, with no expectation of reward. Your legacy and memory will live on through the countless lives you touched. May your soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of your Creator, my dear sister. Adieu – Vicky Okparavero 🌹

A great member with finest character. She left a vaccum we can not fill.
Rest in Peace my sister.

A great member with finest character. She left a vaccum we can not fill.
Rest in Peace my sister.

To my uncle’s wife, a mother and a friend a woman whose warmth and generosity quietly held so much together. You welcomed us with open arms, shared your laugh at the table, and gave with no expectation. Your kindness and steady care made family gatherings brighter. I’m grateful for you and the love you’ve brought into all our lives. May your memories live on

To my dear aunty, your kindness, laughter, and quiet strength have shaped so many moments for our family. You showed up with warmth, wise advice, and the best meals I had during my stay in London, making everywhere feel more like home. I’ll always carry your generosity and spirit with me. Thank you for the love you gave and the example you set.

THE HEART AND PiLLAR THAT HEARD OUR FAMILY.
My BIg Mummy, a steady source of LOVE, REASSURANCE and SUPPORT, the ROOT that anchors the trunk, that connects the crown that holds the branches, then to the least part of the plant which is the flower, that’s who you were, hence you were well known and loved by the least grand child in the house. The love you have for me and others are unspeakable, always ready to let go ( Otele- is ok) is your key word, avoiding problems and solving issues, even challenges of others outside the family. You heard an heart full of empathy for others and listening ears, followed with encouragement ( okeyovwi- it will be well), Mummi, your understanding were extraordinary, sacrificing even at your detriment and fill of integrity. You played the role of a Senior to the fullest and a Senior all Seniors should emulate.
Mummi, my love for you will for ever remain in my heart and the lots I learnt from you will never slip away, I appreciate the love and concerns you showed to me and my family, you felt my pains like you were truly my mum, whenever am hospitalized . So gentle and soft but firm in Spirit, until your death, you heart remained firm believing in God.
I never knew you will not return back home, I would have heard you tight the last time I saw you at Abraka, you said you will be relocating to Abuja, I ,Victor and Victory together with our daddy were planning how we will come over to visit you and spend time with you like we always do.i still find it difficult to believe that you just left us like that. Victory still cries over your death, she keeps saying ” I don’t want London grandma to die, I don’t want London grandma to die”
We miss you Big mummy, my Entire family misses you. May your gentle soul find rest in the bosson of God.
Tribute by Mrs Unuafe Emuejevoke Naomi.

Heavenly Father, we lift up the soul of Helen Iwo. We thank You for her 84 years of life—a journey of light, purpose, and grace.
Lord, we pray in gratitude for the way she saw the world. As an artist and educator, she taught us the “art of seeing” and the beauty of the “Eleanor Pause”—those moments of sacred stillness before creating something new. We ask that You grant her that same stillness and peace now in Your eternal kingdom.

A Prayer for Her Journey:
“Lord, lead her to the rugged shorelines of Your heavenly paradise. May she walk through gardens that never wither and find rest beside the still waters she so loved to paint. May every sunset she witnessed on earth now be realized in the dawn of Your presence.”

A Prayer for Her Legacy:
“We pray for the thousands of lives she touched. May the lessons of curiosity and hope she planted in her students and family continue to bloom. Grant us the strength to carry her ‘gentle, iron-strong’ spirit forward, honoring her by stopping to notice the beauty in Your creation.”

A Prayer for the Family:
“Comfort us, O God, as we remember her. In the quiet gardens she tended and the canvases she filled with light, let us feel her near. Replace our sorrow with the sanctuary of hope she believed in so deeply.”
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Rest in eternal light, Aunty Helen. Amen.

A Tribute to a Remarkable Woman
Today, we celebrate the life of mummy who brought light, warmth, and love to everyone around her. Mummy Iwo’s quick passing away was indeed a shock to me and my family but though no longer with us in the physical sense, will forever live on in our hearts. She carried herself with grace, kindness, and a depth of love that touched the lives of everyone she encountered and I was fortunate to be one of those people. Always checking up on me and especially my children.
She was more than a friend’s mother to me. I will never forget until her last few hours her gentle advice on forgiveness no matter the condition is because there’s nothing to life. She listened with empathy and spoke with wisdom.
The way she loved her family was truly something to behold. As we remember her, we honor the incredible legacy she leaves behind. I am forever grateful for the love she gave me.
Rest in peace, mummy. You will be missed more than words can express, but your love will live on in all of us forever.

Sleep on auntie, you were a kind and peaceful soul. You always carried grace, kindness and a calm reassurance that I will always remember and do my best to emulate. Continue to rest till w e meet again

Nana,
You were strong, thoughtful and someone who always put others first without needing recognition. You had a quiet way of making everything better, bringing calm where there was worry, and making everyone feel loved.

To me, you were so much more than a grandmother. You always wanted the best for me and believed in me, even when I doubted myself. Your support meant everything, especially in my journey in school. You took pride in what I was doing, and that gave me strength and confidence.

Thank you for your love, your patience, and for always being there. Nana, I will miss you deeply.

Rest in peace, Nana.

My beloved mummy, Aunt Helen, to me, Chika and my siblings, you have always been to us a second mum ever since you and our mum became colleagues and close friends; a relationship that became more sisters than friends. From the countless visits in Lagos and Abuja to your priceless and selfless hospitality everytime we visited London. You would not only insist on arranging accommodation but you made time to take us to many different sites over different visits. No words can capture your love, personality and care – which was evident in your thoughtful advice to Chika and I, as well as to David and Yadah.
Even now as you and your beloved sister and our mum, your Scot have reunited with our LORD in His bosom, we hold your legacy dear and unforgettable and will continue to foster the transgenerational relationship that you have built for us, and your grandchildren. Enjoy the Lord’s presence forever, mummy. Amen

Testimony and Tribute of my Awesome friend Helen Iwo (nee Overo).

🌟 A Life of Warmth and Welcome:
For 72 beautiful years, Helen Iwo nee Overo lived a life that embodied love and hospitality. Her hands were never idle, always busy brewing tea, folding clothes, and wiping tears. She was a natural caregiver, tending to wounds, listening without judgment, and giving generously.
Her kitchen was a sanctuary where souls were nourished, and her laughter was the soundtrack of every gathering. Hospitality wasn’t just a habit; it was her calling. Even in the UK, far from home, Helen opened her heart, her table, and her home to everyone who needed it.

🌟 A Personal Tribute
I had the privilege of meeting Helen in 1973 at the defunct Nigeria External Telecommunications Limited (NET). Our bond grew stronger as we studied together at South Thames Technical College, UK in 1975. We even shared a home in Liden House, Peckham, London – memories I’ll always treasure. Through it all, our relationship was bonded with Christ’s love, and I’m grateful for the memories we shared.

🌟 A Legacy of Love
Helen turned chores into acts of love, and generosity into a lasting legacy. Her spirit continues to serve, her smile still welcomes, and her love still feeds. We’ll carry her light forward, one cup of tea, one kind word, and one open door at a time.

Rest now, dear Helen. Your hands may be still, but your impact remains.

My beloved Aunty Iwo (as I called you), it is still surreal to me that you have transitioned just a year after I lost my mom. I was just having a conversation with my brothers about how you were the one that was always a constant in my life from my early childhood years. My mom and Aunty Iwo met in the 80s as colleagues in NITEL, and my mom always spoke about how their bond and friendship was instant. An example of their closeness and Aunty Iwo’s large heart was in how she would always come over to the house after she closed from work (whenever my mom had to travel out of town as the job required) to give me my night baths. I still recall very vividly a conversation I had with her during one of those bath times (I was probably no more than 5 years old at the time), she asked me to give her my right hand so she could wash it. I was confused cos I didn’t know which was my right or left hand then, LOL, so she taught me a little tip. She asked what hand I used to write, and I showed her my right hand. She then said this hand you use to write is your right hand. It was a simple play on homophones(write,right) but what a way to teach a little girl a basic lesson that stuck with me forever. I never forgot that and I tell so many people this story. Aunty Iwo was my mom’s very best friend and a second mother to me. When I lost my mom in Dec. 2024, she immediately (and quite naturally for her tbh) stepped in immediately and tried to fill the emotional void that I had. She made it a point to call me at least once a week just to check on me and our family, even though we were countries apart. She provided mental, emotional and financial support to both my family and I at our lowest point. She always remembered my birthdays and called on every birthday to pray and celebrate with me. That was just the kind of woman she was. I am devastated that she transitioned at a time I personally needed her the most but I am thankful and grateful to God for receiving her gentle and kind soul into paradise where she can have rest and be free from any worldly pains. Aunty, you are so deeply loved and will forever be in my heart. May your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.

No Big Mummy No Doggy!!!!!!!
No one to give me my Doggy anymore. No one have asked me if I can spell “it” since you died. I and my siblings cry to call you on a daily basis but mummy said you can’t answer us anymore because you are now in HEAVEN. How does HEAVEN look like? Can you still get me my Doggy from there? I miss you Big Mummy. I want to speak to you again like we use to do when we get back from school.
Master Chukwuyem Bibleson.

TRIBUTE TO AN ANGELIC AUNT. You were an ANGEL amongst men. Having an aunt like you was a Great Privilege. You were not just an aunt to me but a PERFECT MUM. You taught me how to show love without boundaries. Even when it hurts, you still showed love and kindness to all that ever crossed your path. THANK YOU for all you did for our family. A SELFLESS WOMAN, One with a HEART OF GOLD. Don’t Know how our family will live without you. Your presence was always the reason for our reunion, your love and care gave us hope to live on. You said you would visit again in 2026, never knew the cold hands of death would steal you away from us. My Greatest pain was that I never had the opportunity to see you again. Your death has left a permanent hole in my heart. Bibleson, Prayerson and Nene cries to speak to you as they always do. They all misses you. My husband your favorite proff misses you as well.
Rest in the Bossom of the Lord Big Mummy till we meet to part no more.
Mrs Chukwuyem Oghenevovwero(Niece).

Ineneode as I fondly call you. I can’t believe someone like you can die, you can take care of yourself, you pay attention to details, you are the most patient person I know , you please everyone to a fault( making everyone, think you are more close to you than the other.) But in reality you please everyone for peace to rain, you don’t like to offend anyone. I am your daughter and I know you so well. I don’t think any human can be patient to be my mother. God knows why he made you my mother
Thank you for being a good grandmother and role model to my children. (Nana as you are fondly called)

Nobody lives for ever you have played your part in this life.
God has called you home. I will never forget you for all our smiles, gist, laughter and fights. Helen Iwo you will be missed.
RIP Onime.

So sad to hear of your demise grandma , May your gentle soul continue to Rest in Peace .You will forever remain in our heart .Rest on Grandma

We love you dearly and we believe you are with God.

Adieu mama